WWPS to close campuses March 17-April 24

COVID-19 Update from Superintendent Smith

Today, Friday, March 13, Governor Inslee issued an emergency proclamation to close all public, charter, and private schools in the state of Washington effective Tuesday, March 17. As a result of this directive, the last day for students in Walla Walla Public Schools on campus will be Monday, March 16. Schools across the state, including Walla Walla are to remain closed through at least April 24, 2020 in an effort to aggressively slow the spread of COVID-19.

We recognize the significant impact this extended closure will have on our entire Walla Walla community, students, families, and staff. Closing campuses for a minimum of six weeks mid-year is unprecedented. We acknowledge the anxiety this may cause our students, especially our seniors who are focused on graduation, and those students who depend on WWPS for critical services. We also recognize the burden this will place on our staff and working families.

WWPS has been working tirelessly over recent weeks preparing for the possibility of the unfortunate decision that we would be forced to close our physical campuses. Plans for the continuation of education for all students, preschool through high school, have been drafted, and are being reviewed and finalized. Additionally, access to critical services such as student meals, daycare for targeted groups, and other measures, have also been developed and will be shared in the coming days.

Thank you again for your patience and support as we implement campus safety closure procedures and communicate plans to ensure high levels of continued learning for our students throughout this health crisis. 

Respectfully,

Wade Smith, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Walla Walla Public Schools